Watch "For Your Protection" every Wednesday morning on WTXL Sunrise.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Coming home and finding your front door open is a situation no one wants to be in, but knowing what to do could make the situation a little less dangerous.
According to Officer David Northway of the Tallahassee Police Department, the first thing you should remember is DO NOT enter the house. Instead, go to a safe place and call local law enforcement.
A law enforcement officer can make sure that your home is safe for you and your family to enter.
For more information on Crime Prevention Programs and Services, contact the Unit at (850) 891-4251 or via email
Here are some tips from Tallahassee Police:
- Make sure all exterior doors and windows are properly closed and locked when you leave. Many burglaries occur because people do not fully close the door. Most burglaries are a crime of opportunity! An unlocked or opened door or window can easily provide this opportunity. Garage doors should also
be closed and locked. - Stop your mail and paper or have a trusted neighbor collect them for you.
- Make sure interior lights and electronics are on timers. This will give your home the appearance of being occupied. Exterior lighting can usually be equipped with a photocell that will activate lighting automatically.
- Park your vehicle in a well-lighted area. Valuables left in plain view only entice burglars. Remove all items from the vehicle (CD's, backpacks, cell phones, purses, currency).
- Have someone you know check on your vehicle and home. Leave emergency contact information with someone you trust. If you live in an apartment, contact your apartment manager or leasing agent to let them know you are leaving town. Let them know how to contact you in case of an emergency.
- Contact the police department and request an Extra Protection for your address.
